Any related queries you’d like answered? email to us at editor@myBatik.org.my

Q1: In order to export batik to other countries, what is the cheaper way of shipping, for example from Kota Bharu to US? To import cotton/silk into malaysia, which is the best entry point for me to do so?
Mustapha Ahmad, 34, businessman

ANSWER: The cheapest way of exporting batik shipment from KB to US is via Port Kelang. The best entry point for the importation of raw material for the batik industry into Malaysia direct from the producing country is via Port Klang as the port has the best
facilities for clearance.

Q2: I am looking to purchase batik dyes for my batik project. Can you recommend a few places where I could purchase good quality ones?
Wong Ee Lin, 23, student

ANSWER: To purchase batik dyes for your batik project you may approach Batik Craftsmen at Complex Craft Kuala Lumpur, Jalan Conlay or at art shops like Nanyang at Petaling Street. For commercial production of batik you can contact :-

Industri Kraf Samasa Lima
5166, Jalan Kuala Krai, 15050 Kota Bharu,
Kelantan Darul Naim.
Tel :09-7461210 (En. Kamaruzaman)

Q3: I am a big fan of batik and would like to know the difference between Terengganu batik sarong and Kelantan batik sarong? Why are there more batik entrepreneurs in Kelantan and Terengganu as compared to other states?
Mohd Husni, 38, teacher

Answer: The Batik sarong of Terengganu and Kelantan can be differenciated though the process of making the batiks. The Batik sarong of Terengganu uses at least 3 to 4 times of repeated hand printing with batik block mould on hot wax. This process is known as Batik sarong lapis or lapis.

The Terengganu Batik sarong are more colourful than the Kelantan Batik sarong. They are hand coloured and done at home by housewives in their spare time to get extra money to supplement the family income. The semi-finished sarongs are then collected by the manufacturer / entrepreneur for final finishing.

The Kelantan Batik sarongs are similar to that of Terengganu using the hand block printing method with traditional design but only uses 2 layering of wax processing. Hence it has less colours.

Batik sarongs are also screen printed in both states. Traditional Batik sarongs are of cotton material but today some are of mix materials as well as on silk today for the up market buyers and collectors.

There are more batik producers and entrepreneurs in Kelantan and Terengganu as it is due to the fact that both these states are pioneers. Many are family businesses or enterprises inherited apart from the fact that the people from the East Coast are very artistic.

Q4: I am a batik designer and am interested to know more about copyright issues in terms of batik designs. Does batik pattern copyright exist in Malaysia? If so, how do batik designers apply for their designs to be copyrighted?
Nor Sharifah, 33, batik designer

ANSWER: When it comes to the question of copyright issues for batik, one needs to take a different approach. Patenting rights are more for
Industrial Products. Batik falls under the arts and crafts category therefore if one wants to protect one’s designs it must be protected as a work of art. Certain steps need to be taken on how to get one’s design protected as there had been legal precedents on this issues. If you need more information, you may consult with an expert, Mr. Abdul Karim Bin Said of Khadaui Sdn Bhd at 03-61202634.

Q5: I am a graphic designer. I have a few designs that I wish to transfer into batik. Is there any place that can help me in this?
Komala Singh, 25, designer

As a graphic designer your designs can be transferred into batik by any batik entrepreneur or maker. In Kuala Lumpur you may approach Batik Craftsmen at Complex Craft Kuala Lumpur, Section 63, Jalan Conlay, 50450 Kuala Lumpur. C’Wok, Nik Faudzan.

Q6: What is your personal opinion on Malaysian batik within the next 5 years batik entrepreneurs?
Michael Van Leuwen, 43, businessman

Batik is an exciting medium of working on fabric and testing one’s artistic skills and patience. The craft is so versatile that one may design anything one fancies immediately and have a one-off design that can be collected or sold. I personally feel that Batik is going to make an impact on the fashion industry since it is highly promoted by the Malaysian government through its agencies as well as well-known local fashion designers.

The usage of natural dye for batik should be explored more due to the global warming phenomenon. Many organic and agricultural methods, if properly utilized, can open up a fantastic new world of exciting colours when applied on cotton or silk.